Move over all you other free concert series, there’s a new kid in town. The Cultural Affairs Division presents Jazz on the Lawn, a series of three free concerts on the grass in front of City Hall. Cuban master conguero Francisco Aguabella kicks off the series on Sunday, courtesy of the Los Angeles County Arts Commission’s Free Concerts in Public program. This free concert is a rare opportunity to see and hear this jazz legend. While the bands play on the north lawn, local artist Marcus Kuiland Nazario will lead concert-goers in games of croquet on the south lawn. Parking is free at the Civic Auditorium or at any of the metered spaces surrounding City Hall. Join us again on Sunday, Aug. 20, for the Acoustic Jazz Quartet with vocalist Cheryl Conley. And on Sunday, Aug. 27, we will host the Mad Alsacians. Bring your own picnic blanket, a chair or just lounge in the grass while listening to the hot music in the cool ocean breeze.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on August 11, 2006. Read the original PDF.